International

Biden hits Russia with sanctions, shifts troops to Germany

Published

4 years ago

February 25, 2022

Biden hits Russia with sanctions, shifts troops to Germany

President Joe Biden hit back Thursday against Russia’s invation of Ukraine, unleashing robust new sanctions, ordering the deployment of thousands of additional troops to NATO ally Germany and declaring that America would stand up to Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

As for the Russian president, Biden said: “He’s going to test the resolve of the west o see if we stay together. And we will.”

Targeting Russia’s financial system, Biden said, the United States will block assets of large Russian banks, i mpose export controls aimed at the nation’s high-tech needs and sanction its business oligarchs.

The president said the U.S. also will be deploying additional forces to Germany to bolster NATO after the invation of Ukraine, which is not a member of the defense organization. Some 7,000 additional U.S. troops will be sent.

Some U.S. lawmakers — and Ukrainian officials — called on Biden to do more.

“There is more that we can and should do,” said Sen Bob Menendez, D-N.J., the chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, pointing to the possibility of removing Russian banks from the SWIFT international banking system and sanctioning Putin personally. “Congress and the Biden administration must not shy away from any options.”

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell expressed support Thursday for Biden’s latest moves but also urged Biden to apply maximum pressure on Putin. McConnell said the top four congressional leaders in the House and Senate received a classified briefing from the president late Thursday.

“We’re all together at this point and we need to be together about what should be done,” McConnell said. “But I have some advice: Ratchet the sanctions all the way up. Don’t hold any back.”

White House deputy national security adviser Daleep Singh stressed that the Biden administration valued closed coordination with allies and avoiding even the perception of hurting ordinary Russian citizens as they roll out sanctions. He declined to detail a circumstance in which Biden might approve cutting the Russians off from SWIFT or target Putin directly.

“When we consider which sanctions to apply, we’re not cowboys and cowgirls pressing a button to impose costs,” Singh said. “We follow a set of principles. We want the sanctions to be impactful enough to demonstrate our resolve, and to show that we have the capacity to deliver overwhelming costs to Russia.”

Biden declared that Putin, who has referred to the collapse of the Soviet Union as the “greatest geopolitical catastrophe” of the past century, is looking beyond Ukraine.

“He has much larger ambitions,” Biden said. “He wants to, in fact, reestablish the former Soviet Union. That’s what this is about.”

The penalties announced Thursday fall in line with the White House’s insistence that it would hit Russia’s financial system and Putin’s inner circle, while also imposing export controls that would aim to starve Russia’s industries and military of U.S. semiconductors and other high-tech products.

“Putin is the aggressor,” Biden said. “Putin chose this war, and now he and his country will bear the consequences.”

But Biden, for now, held off imposing some of the most severe potential sanctions, including cutting Russia out of the SWIFT payment system, which allows for the transfers of money from bank to bank around the globe.

Biden announced the sanctions at the White House while Ukraine’s government reported mounting casualties inflicted by Russian forces attacking from the east, north and south.

Oil and natural prices have already surged over concerns that Russia — an energy production behemoth — will slow the flow of oil and natural gas to Europe. Biden, however, acknowledged the sanctions are “going to take time” to have their effect on the Russian economy.

Biden added that after Russia’s “brutal assault” against Ukraine it would be a mistake to allow Putin’s actions to go unanswered. He said if they did, “the consequences for America would be much worse.”

“America stands up to bullies, we stand up for freedom,” Biden said. “This is who we are.”

Biden spoke hours after holding a virtual meeting with the leaders of Britain, Canada, France, Italy and Japan. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Charles Michel and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also joined the meeting.

The president also met with his national security team in the White House Situation Room as he looked to flesh out U.S. moves in the rapidly escalating crisis.

The White House said Biden would meet Friday morning with other NATO heads of state “in an extraordinary virtual summit to discuss the security situation in and around Ukraine.”Vice president Kamala Harris will meet virtually with leaders of eastern flank NATO members, including nations like Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania that gained independence when the Soviet Union broke up in 1991.

While Biden described the sanctions as severe, Ukrainian officials urged the U.S. and West to go further.

“We demand the disconnection of Russia from SWIFT, the introduction of a no-fly zone over Ukraine and other effective steps to stop the aggressor,” Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a tweet.

The Biden administration, however, has shown some reluctance to cut Russia from SWIFT, at least immediately, because of concerns the move could also have enormous ramifications for Europe and other Western economies. Biden, answering questions from reporters, appeared to push a decision on SWIFT to European allies.

“It is always an option but right now that’s not the position that the rest of Europe wishes to take,” Biden said. He also contended that the financial sanctions he announced would be more damaging to Russia.

The Belgium-headquartered system allows for tens of millions of transactions daily among banks, financial exchanges and other institutions. The U.S. notably has previously blocked Iran from the system because of its nuclear program.

Officials in Europe have noted that the loss of SWIFT access by Russia could be a drag on the broader global economy. Russia has also equated a SWIFT ban to a declaration of war. And because the system cements the importance of the U.S. dollar in global finance, outright bans also carry the risk of pushing countries to use alternatives through the Chinese government or blockchain-based technologies.

Brian Frey, a former Justice Department prosecutor during the Trump administration, said while SWIFT is the primary messaging system for financial payments, “there are alternatives to the system” and cutting Russia off would create a “splashback and immediate problems for the international community.”

The sanctions include targeting Russia’s two largest banks, Sberbank and VTB Bank. The U.S. Treasury Department says the sanctions overall “target nearly 80% of all banking assets in Russia and will have a deep and long-lasting effect on the Russian economy and financial system.”

Individuals close to Putin were also targeted in the latest sanctions. They include former chief of staff Sergei Ivanov; Andrey Patrushev, a Putin ally who has held high-ranking positions at the state-owned Gazprom Neft; and former Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin, chairman of the management board of the oil company Rosneft.

Treasury also announced sanctions against Belarusian banks, the country’s defense industry and security officials over support for the Russian invation of Ukraine.

Biden said the export control measures he ordered would “impose severe cost on the Russian economy, both immediately and over time.” The measures will restrict Russia access to semiconductors, computers, telecommunications, information security equipment, lasers and sensors.

“We’re going to impair their ability to compete in a high-tech 21st century economy,” Biden said.

Meanwhile, Russia’s second-ranking diplomat in Washington, Minister Counselor Sergey Trepelkov, was expelled in retaliation for the Russian expulsion of the No. 2 U.S. diplomat in Moscow earlier this month, a senior State Department official said Thursday.

The expulsion was unrelated to the invation and is part of a long-running dispute between Washington and Moscow over embassy staffing, the official said.

International

France, Italy Collaborates with Nigeria to Boost Human Trafficking Fight

Published

21 hours ago

October 29, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

France, Italy Collaborates with Nigeria to Boost Human Trafficking Fight

…Launch Common Operational Partnership Project

By: Michael Mike

The French and Italian governments, in conjunction with Nigerian government have launched the Common Operational Partnership (COP Nigeria) Project aimed at combating human trafficking.

Speaking at the official launch of the project in Abuja, the Director General of National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Hajiya Binta Bello said: “Today’s event marks yet another milestone in our collective efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s response to human trafficking and the smuggling of migrants. It is a moment of renewed collaboration, shared commitment, and forward-looking action.

“Nigeria occupies a strategic position in the migration dynamics of West Africa. As a country of origin, transit, and destination, we continue to grapple with multifaceted and evolving challenges — from human trafficking and migrant smuggling to related transnational crimes such as sexual exploitation, document forgery, and drug trafficking.”

Bello, who was represented at the Launch by the agency’s Director, Research and Programme Development, Josiah Emerole, noted that: “Over the years, NAPTIP has made remarkable progress in its five cardinal areas of intervention — Policy, Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership. However, we are fully aware that the changing nature of trafficking and smuggling necessitates continuous innovation, deeper collaboration, and the strengthening of institutional capacities across all levels.”

She said: “The Common Operational Partnership (COP) initiative, implemented by the Government of France with the support of Italian Ministry of Interior, represents a strategic opportunity to consolidate our achievements and introduce evidence-based, context-specific approaches to tackling these crimes in Nigeria.

@Built around four key pillars — Joint Needs Assessment, Training and Mentoring, Operational Support, and Geographic Focus — the COP Project provides a comprehensive framework to enhance investigation, prosecution, and victim-centered interventions. Equally important, it will promote effective intelligence sharing, joint operations, and operational synergy among NAPTIP’s zonal commands and our regional partners in West Africa.”

She disclosed that: “The project will commence with pilot implementation in 3 target States — Cross River, Osun, Katsina, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) — all strategically positioned along high-risk trafficking and migration corridors. These routes have witnessed increasing volumes of irregular movement and emerging trafficking trends aimed at accessing developed countries. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated and sustained action, which this initiative aptly supports.”

Bello added that today’s launch is not merely ceremonial. It is a clear statement of intent — a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s commitment, through NAPTIP and in partnership with our international allies, to dismantle trafficking networks, disrupt smuggling operations, and uphold the dignity and rights of every human being.

She acknowledged the contributions of

the Government of France, CIVIPOL, the Italian Ministry of Interior, the European Union, and all other partners for their unwavering support, technical expertise, and steadfast commitment to this success of the project

She said: “Your collaboration reinforces the spirit of shared responsibility and global solidarity in combating human trafficking and migrant smuggling.”

She added that: “As we formally launch this project today, I urge all stakeholders to remain united and focused on our shared vision. Together, we can make the Common Operational Partnership not only a model of success for Nigeria but also a benchmark for regional cooperation and best practices across West Africa.”

Speaking on the project, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot said the official launch of the Common Operational Partnership

France-Italy-Nigeria project is a milestone in our shared commitment to combat trafficking in human beings and the smuggling of migrants.

He said. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all those who contributed to developing this initiative, including CIVIPOL, whose leadership and experience with the COP model is proving fundamental in providing expert coordination to the project, the International Security Cooperation

Directorate (DCIS) of the French Ministry of Interior and the Italian Ministry of Interior, whose technical expertise and coordination support will be crucial for the project’s success; and finally, the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), in particular the

Migration Partnership Facility (MPF), for their management support.”

He added that: “As you well know, Nigeria occupies a central position in this global challenge. It remains a source,

transit, and destination country for trafficking and smuggling, with well-established networks along the main migration routes. These rings exploit the most vulnerable, undermine security, and

violate fundamental rights. The EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and the renewed EU action plan against migrant smuggling (2021-2025) call for a comprehensive response and an even closer

cooperation along the migratory routes to dismantle criminal networks while safeguarding migrants’ dignity. The initiative we are launching today reflects that vision.”

He noted that: “The Common Operational Partnership France–Italy–Nigeria Project is a concrete step forward. Running until June 2027, with a budget of €1.43 million (93% co-funded by the European Union), it aims to achieve two objectives: first, to enhance NAPTIP’s capacity to dismantle trafficking and smuggling networks while protecting victims; and second, to strengthen regional and international cooperation against these crimes.

“Its methodology is practical and results-driven: a comprehensive needs assessment, followed by tailored training, equipment provision, and daily mentoring. This approach builds trust and ensures sustainable impact.”

Speaking also, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier said: “The project we are launching today is both concrete and ambitious. It is action–oriented and forward–looking. It aims to strengthen the capacities of law enforcement agencies, particularly NAPTIP, to improve information sharing, encourage joint investigation, and ensure coordinated support for victims”.

In her goodwill message, the Head, International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Isabelle Wolfsgruber, assured that the Centre shall continue to partner with state and non-state actors in the fight against human trafficking in Nigeria.

The project is co-funded by the European Union, contracted by ICMPD through the Migration Partnership facility. It will be implemented by CIVIPOL and NAPTIP.
End

International

The Body Shop Extends Reach in Nigeria

Published

2 days ago

October 28, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

The Body Shop Extends Reach in Nigeria

…. Opens First Store in Lagos

By: Michael Mike

The Body Shop has announced the opening of a new store in Nigeria, bringing ethical, naturally inspired beauty to Lagos.

Following the successful launch in Abuja and a national e-commerce site earlier in the year, the new opening marks an important step in the brand’s commitment to West Africa and its broader global growth strategy.

The new store in Lagos, located at Ikeja City Mall, brings the number of jobs created by the brand in Nigeria to over 20. The store will be home to the full range of Body Shop products, ranging from newly launched collections, such as Spa of the World, to its Most Loved products and ranges enriched with Community Fair Trade ingredients, including Shea, Tea Tree, and Aloe

According to a statement on Monday by Senior Press & Public Affairs Officer | Comms Lead, Prosperity and Economic Growth. Ndidiamaka Eze, with the customer placed at the heart of the store experience, locals and visitors alike will be welcomed through the signature dark green facade, into a world where confidence is beautiful. Members of the expert in-store team will be on hand to guide customers through the product ranges, consult on skincare needs and even offer a relaxing hand massage or treatment at the sink.

Speaking at the launch ceremony hosted at his Residence, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter said:“The Body Shop’s arrival in Lagos marks more than a business expansion. It’s a powerful symbol of the deepening UK-Nigeria trade relationship. With bilateral trade now at £7.9 billion and rising, Nigeria stands as the UK’s second-largest trading partner in Africa and our leading export market on the continent.

“We’re especially proud to see this franchise led by Shalom Lloyd MBE, a dynamic British-Nigerian entrepreneur whose work in skincare, healthcare, and women’s empowerment reflects the kind of innovative, purpose-driven partnerships we champion. Her collaboration with The Body Shop is a shining example of the impact UK-Nigeria cooperation can achieve.”

“Expanding into Lagos marks another step in The Body Shop’s global growth strategy. As we accelerate our presence across high-potential markets, West Africa plays an important role in shaping the future of our business. Lagos, as a dynamic commercial hub, allows us to connect with a new generation of consumers who share our belief that beauty can be a force for good,”said Mike Jatania, CEO & Executive Chairman, The Body Shop.

“This is not just about opening a store, it is about deepening trade ties, creating opportunities, and showing the world what happens when values-driven business meets one of the most vibrant cities on earth,” added Shalom Ijeoma Lloyd MBE,

General Manager, The Body Shop Nigeria.

The Body Shop has longstanding and meaningful connections to Africa, first forged by founder Dame Anita Roddick who built personal and professional ties to the region that have been carried forward by the brand and continue to thrive today. They include partnerships with three Community Fair Trade suppliers – tea tree oil grown by smallholder farmers near Mount Kenya to shea butter handcrafted by women’s cooperatives in northern Ghana to moringa seed oil cultivated by wild harvesters in Rwanda’s eastern provinces.

The Body Shop has long invested in sourcing high quality ingredients from Community Fair Trade partners across the globe. The brand believes in building sustainable, fair supply chains that empower women and support local communities.

The Body Shop was founded in 1976 in Brighton, England, by Dame Anita Roddick. The Body Shop is a pioneer in ethical beauty, offering high quality, innovation-driven skin care, body care, hair and makeup products made with natural and fair-trade ingredients from around the world.

The Body Shop Extends Reach in Nigeria

International

Israeli envoy expresses sympathy to innocent victims of war with Hamas

Published

1 week ago

October 20, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Israeli envoy expresses sympathy to innocent victims of war with Hamas

By: Michael Mike

Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman has expressed sympathy for the innocent souls that died in the war with Hamas.

Freeman expressed his sympathy on Sunday on the occasion commemorating the 2nd year memorial of the war with Hamas.

He said:”Friends, as we remember the victims of October 7, we also express sympathy for the innocent Palestinians who have lost their lives in this war—a war Israel never wanted, a war Israel never started – a war that was forced upon us.

“We grieve for every innocent soul, because we value life—all life.”

The envoy insisted that they are not foreigners and neither did they colonise the land.

He said: “We are not foreigners in Israel, we did not colonize the land of Israel; we returned to it. Jews have lived in Jerusalem, Tiberias, Hebron, Tsfat and every part of our land for over 3,000 years. Through exile and dispersion, we prayed toward Jerusalem, and we remembered Jerusalem at every wedding, every festival, and at every dinner table.

“We revived our language, planted forests, gathered exiles, welcomed survivors, and built a modern technology-based economy in a nation reborn.

“Israel was not created because of the Holocaust. It was created in spite of it.”

He stressed that: “Israel is not built on pity. Israel is built on courage, on faith, on history.

“And today, “Never Again” is not just a slogan. It is the Iron Dome that protects children in Sderot. It is the Israeli pilot in the sky. It is the 18-year-old girl in olive uniform, standing guard so that our children can sleep at night.”

He also expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump of the United States “for his steadfast support, his courage in recognizing truths others ignored, and his unique efforts in bringing our hostages home and helping to finally end this war.”

Highlights of the evening were virtual testimonies of survival of the October 7 2023 attack.

Israeli envoy expresses sympathy to innocent victims of war with Hamas